Vlad

Plagiarism The Mighty Pen is generally known for its universal acceptance and positive approach to individuals, however plagiarism is unacceptable and will result in banning and a notification to the appropriate authorities. We at the Pen appreciate the writing that comes from your own imagination the most. Back to top

Copyright Disclaimer The Pen is Mightier than the Sword abides by the universal laws of copyright, which can be explored in further detail at http://www.copyright.gov. The Library forum of the Pen can be used for sharing works that inspire you with others, however appropriate citation of the author and origin of the work are expected. As William Blake said in his "Proverbs of Hell," however, "The cistern contains; the fountain overflows." While it can be nice to share a work from time to time, we at the Pen appreciate the writing that comes from your own imagination the most. In particular, those worried about protecting their works should remember that at least in the United States any original writing with the words 'Copyright [current year] [your name]' will be legally considered copywrited. That is all that is required to protect posted work. Back to top

Q: Where can I find more information if my question isn't answered here? A: Well, I can suggest a few places to look. First of all, I recommend our Codex, which is basically our organizational documents. Click Here. For a good basic discussion of our etiquette I recommend Thoughts on Manners and Consideration of Others Lastly, Try sending a Private Message (PM) to one of the Elders. Although they all have Real Lives, they will reply as quickly as they are able. Back to top

Q: Is there some way to search for a specific thread in the forums? A: Yes, at the top of the screen you can click on the "Search" option, which allows you to search by thread title and member name, amongst other things. You can also run a search in any of the forums by scrolling to the bottom of the page of the forum you wish to search in and typing a title or keyword in the "search this forum" space provided. Back to top

Q: How do I edit my signature or add an avatar? A: Signature and avatar editing can be done by clicking on your User Name in the upper right corner, and then click on "My Profile". In the upper right is an option "Edit Profile Info". Once you've clicked it, the Avatar (Photo) is the first option on the "General Account Settings" On the left is a tab "Signatures". We are glad when people use signatures, but do ask that you try to keep them small and not flashing, because otherwise it slows things down a lot for those with slower connections, on mobile devices, or who pay for bandwidth. The option to turn off viewing others' signatures is available in your Edit Profile area. Back to top

Q: What's a member profile and how do I add things to mine? A: A member profile is a simple list of tidbits of optional information about a member that can be viewed by clicking on that member's name. To add information to your profile, click on your User Name in the upper right corner, and then click on "My Profile". In the upper right is an option "Edit profile info." Back to top

Q: How often do promotions happen here? A: Promotions are scheduled for every other month, but don't expect to be nominated each time! Over the months leading up to the promotions, members keep an open eye for people who they feel meet the guidelines for their next rank. These names usually get sent to an Elder, via PM or e-mail. The Elders will discuss amongst themselves, eventually deciding which candidates they'd like to see advanced to the next rank. One Elder will emerge from the Tower carrying a finalized list to be approved by the Voting Members. The voters have one week to submit anonymous votes of Yea or Nay before the promotion becomes official. All members are free to vote, but when providing a negative response are expected to give a reason for opposing the promotion. Once the week expires, a celebration is initiated when the LoreMaster makes the announcement in the Cabaret Room for all to offer their congratulatory remarks! Note: The preceding answer involves dramatization, and the events depicted may or may not occur as described. You have been warned. Back to top

Q: What is expected of me if I want to get promoted? A: Let's examine the description of each rank for the answer. The Ranks of the Pen are a way to measure one's progress as a writer. As you advance, you will find new areas of the Pen Keep become visible. Initiate: The beginning of the Pen journey, and still getting used to The Pen is Mightier than the Sword culture. While Honored Guests are always welcome, The Initiate has posted an application, and been accepted by our Elder of Initiates. As an Initiate our expectation is that you write and explore. Work on developing your skills, and begin to explore the community. Non-voting rank. Page: Promotion to the rank of Page indicates you've been consistently active and have shown a willing to give to the community by revising and developing your own works, incorporating critical feedback if you agree (it IS your work), or by providing helpful or constructive feedback on another's works. As Jechum put it, Pages are members who are still growing, developing, promoting, and showing they can play well with others. Respect is a very important value at the Pen is Mightier than the Sword, and criticizing a work or an idea without criticizing the person is a developed skill. Non-Voting member. Quill Bearer: One must show a dedication to the Pen and must show further improvement over the rank of a Page. Quill Bearers are most of the way to Voting membership, and should show a good amount of activity and responsibility. Quill-bearers do a Quill Quest to be promoted to a Voting member rank. Since Quill Quests often benefit the Pen as a whole, limited Moderator permissions may be granted at this level for the duration of the Quest. Voting Membership: Troubadour, Poet and Herald: On completion of a Quill Quest, the member choose what they feel is their current primary area of strength. While they help to determine the future and direction of the Pen through voting, these ranks recognize a person's desire to continue to develop and grow. Vote counts as 1(one). Troubadour - Often coming from the Assembly Room, the Troubadour is a story-teller. Poet - Often coming from the Banquet Hall, the Poet is, well, a poet. Herald - Often coming from the Conservatory, the Herald is a Role-Player, a player of characters and enjoys the interaction of multi-authorized threads. Skald - The Skald is one who has shown mastery of two of the three initial Voting ranks. Recognition is granted by a selection of the Voting Membership comprised of the holders of the specific Rank, the Skalds, the Bards, and the Elders. For example, A Herald wishing to become a Skald might focus on Poetry, and when ready, request the promotion. The existing Poets, and higher Ranks, would vote, and a simply majority would grant the recognition. Vote counts as 2(two). Bard: The Bard of the Mighty Pen is a Voting Member who has shown mastery in all three areas of writing (Storytelling, Poetry, and Role playing). This is the highest Rank a member may achieve off individual merit, and it is correspondingly difficult to achieve. Voting on advancement to Bard is restricted to existing Bards only. Vote counts as 3(three). Elder Vote counts as 5(five), and LoreMaster (votes only in case of a tie): These ranks are not promotions, but rather support roles taken on by dedicated Voting Membership in support of the community as a whole. An Elder or LoreMaster who finds their time taken by other concerns, or who wishes to devote more time to develop themselves or work on their own project, may always "step-down" to their prior Rank, without prejudice. We are primarily and first an environment of safety - pressures should be internal spurs to growth as a person, not from other members. Non-Voting Positions: Ancient: These are Elders who have stepped down due to the inactivity of Real Life, but still make themselves available for occasional advice. Their opinions usually carry great weight at The Pen. Moderator/Administrator: These are Rank-independent positions of service. Some trustworthy members are comfortable with detailed technical functions but prefer reading or working behind the scenes over developing as writers. For security reasons, due to the power of these positions, the earliest a person may be considered for these technical support roles is Quill-Bearer, and that if it is necessary for their Quill Quest. Otherwise, any Voting Member may volunteer to be considered for one of these roles. Back to top

Q:What role do the Elders serve? A: The Elders serve the Mighty Pen. They are dedicated to being active, to mentoring, to answering questions. Their writing skills are proven, and many are also Skalds or Bards. These are the people who run The Pen on a daily basis. If you have an idea for change, need help, or just something comes up these are probably the people to whom to talk. This is an entirely volunteer role, and indicates a strong desire to help others instead of focusing on self-development. One Elder in specific has the role of LoreMaster. If there's a big announcement, it's his job to take care of it. If there's an event that affects everyone, he'll make sure people find out. When promotions take place, he'll be the one to promote. When things get completely out of control, it is his responsibility to step in and grab the reigns. In short, the buck stops with him. One a quarter, every three months, the LoreMaster may "break the rules". This action may only be stopped by a unanimous vote of the Elders. When an Elder can no longer actively support, they either resume their prior Voting Member Title, or become an Ancient. Ancients may advise, but not vote. They provide a body of wisdom on which we may call when making major changes to our future goals, but who are generally inactive due to Real Life commitments. Not to be confused with an Administrator or Moderator. Back to top

Q: What do all of the different ranks mean? A: The ranks represent how long a member has been part of our community, as well as his or her willingness to participate and help others grow. A description of the meanings of each rank can be found here. Back to top

Q: What is the Chatbox and how can I use it? A: The Chatbox is an immediately updated area in which people may feel free to toss out any idle comments, or general thoughts, they have. It is found at the bottom of the screen. Type in your name on the upper line, and whatever comment you wish "to shout", then press the 'enter' key on your keyboard, or click on the 'Go' button to the right of your shout. Back to top

Q: And how can I read PMs sent to me? A: PMs sent to you can be found by clicking on your User Name in the upper right corner, and choose the Personal Messenger(PM) option. Your messages will be listed, most recent on top. When you receive a new message from someone, a separate window with that message in it should pop up on the screen as well. If it doesn't, you may turn that on by editing your Profile Settings. Back to top

Q: What is the PM system and how do I send PMs? A: The PM (Personal Message) system is a way of contacting a member on the board privately with a message. To send a PM to someone, click on your User Name in the upper right corner, and choose the Personal Messenger(PM) option. In the upper right, click on Compose New. Type in the member's name in the "Recipient's Name" box, and your message in the large white box at the bottom. Alternately, you can click on any member's name to view their profile, in which an option to PM them should be listed. Also, if someone has PMed you something to which you wish to respond, there should be a "reply" option at the end of the message. Back to top

Q: Where can I find a list of all of the Pen members? A: To see a list of both members and guests of the pen in alphabetical order, you can click on the tab at the top left of the screen entitled "Members." Back to top

Q: What's the catch? A: Well, in order to apply, the piece you post must be written specifically for that purpose. After that, we only ask that you are Polite to the other people here. We come from all walks of life, and all share the love of writing. Back to top

Q: Sounds great, but what's this about applying? I thought I already registered! A: Registering only gets you an account on the board. When you apply and are accepted, you officially become a member of our writing community. There's no time limit in which you need to apply, in fact, if you chose to, you can not apply at all. It's just a formality, but it does get you some extra perks. You can apply in the Recruiter’s Office with any piece - poetry or prose - that hasn’t been posted elsewhere. Wyvern will get to you as soon as he can! Back to Top

Q: Now that I'm registered, where can I post? A: Basically, you can post anywhere you'd like to. All of the forums that you see are designed for publicl use. Although public, most do have a specific purpose, so don't panic if your posts are moved. The moderating staff are just trying and keep everything clean and organized! The Cabaret Room is a general forum for almost anything and everything. If you don't know where to post something, this is probably the place. Please remember to keep it appropriate, as some of our members are younger folks. The Assembly Room is designed for storytelling, both long and short. The Banquet Room is aimed at the poetic minds here. Any kind of verse is welcome. The Conservatory is for the social writers on these boards. The stories that take place here are either Role-Played-where each writer assumes an identity and collaborates on an epic quest, or maybe just sits back in the tavern-or are plays. The Library is works archived from other places. We're very careful about plagiarism, so if it isn't your own work, then please be sure and give credit to the original author. The Recruiter's Hall is where you can aim to be a member of our community, instead of just a guest on the boards. For any of the forums, feel free to browse through the histories when the wind strikes you, to get a better idea of the threads in each. Back to top

Q: How do I register an account at the Pen? A: To register an account on these boards, click the "register" option at the top of the screen and fill out the small information form provided there. It shouldn't take more than a minute or so, and before you know it you'll have an account here at the Pen. Back to top

Q: So who created The Pen anyway? A: The beginning of the Pen goes something along the lines of this: Ozymandias, the old, dusty, dirty, old, drunk, old founder became irked with the total and utter lack of ability to be creative with the youngins these days. As such he wanted to form a guild whose sole purpose was to challenge others to come up with witty banter that they could share in between battles. Well, this was all well and good, but he needed more than one person to accomplish his goal, so he went out and recruited some of the biggest talents he could find. Unfortunately they were all busy so he got stuck with people like lumpenproletariat, Peredhil, Jechum, Racouol. Arawn and Zool just to name a few. Ozy also asked the greatest, best looking and most suave of all, Orlan, to join his group. Orlan, ever so popular, could only serve as a voice for the group on paper, but still cheered them on (from the background….and rather quietly so no one knew he was). Ozy now had the manpower, he just needed a name, so once again he did the smartest thing ever, he asked the Sexiful Orlan for advice, and, after a long ICQ conversation that consisted mostly of suggestions that were replied with “Dude, that’s stupid” the name The Pen is Mightier then the Sword was chosen. Thus, from that day forth, The Pen has been a ground littered with the empty beer bottles of creativity, and the leftover pizza boxes of talent and the occasional pair of underwear of effort.And that’s the truth, the whole truth and nothing but what I’ve forced myself to believe. Gwaihir's note: No peanuts for guessing that Orlan wrote this one Orlan's counter-note: Orlan deserves MANY peanuts! Ozymandias' counter-counter-note: Hi Mom! Quincunx's note-on-the-counter: Orlan isn't just Lord of the Pants, he's Lord of the Peanuts [Gallery]! Peredhil's note: The Pen was originally in the writing forums of the Guild servers hosting an online game, Archmage. The game is gone, but before it's end, The Pen is Mightier than the Sword ezboard was created by Jechum, so that the writing would not be lost. We quickly chafed at the restrictions of Ezboard, and the demoness-child Rune ported everything over to the current forum software. Over the years, the Pen dwindled, and it wasn't collecting enough donations to pay the hosting fees, so the Ancient Patrick moved everything to be under his personal domain.

Q: So, what kind of writing society is The Pen is Mightier than the Sword and what is it about? A: As it was put by Jechum—“We the posters of posts in order to form a more perfect society that can cut across all boards, establish good fun, ensure values, increase board tranquility, provide common sense, promote humor, and secure the development of good writing, do ordain and establish the Society of "the Pen is Mightier than the Sword". Our primary goal is to create a family of posters who by working together can nurture growth and encourage creativity for all, by all.” The people around here are, well, people. There is no personal profile that fits everyone, since we come from many countries, many cultures, and a broad age range. From students to professionals to students of life, we’re all represented here. Yet we are all drawn here as members of this community by a love of writing and the written word, by a shared desire to improve our skills, and by our appreciation of the warm and supportive environment we find and create here. Come join us. Read, comment on what you read, write and receive comment. Guests are welcome to participate here, and that’s the best way to discover how our community works.

Legal - ==Copyright Disclaimer ==Plagiarism Back to Table of Contents

Misc. - What's a member profile? How do I edit my signature or add an avatar? Is there a way to search for a specific thread? What if I have a different question? What are the carnivals? What the heck is this geld contraption? Back to Table of Contents

ALL RANKS ARE UP TO DATE AS OF JUNE 2014 ~PEREDHIL Ranks and Advancement - What do all of the different ranks mean? What role do the Elders serve? What is expected if I want to get promoted? How often do promotions happen here? So what are Quill Quests and how do I do one? Back to Table of Contents

Community - ==Where can I find a list of all Pen members? ==What is the PM system and how do I use it? ==How do I access PMs sent to me? ==What is the Chatbox and how can I use it? ==Who makes all of the Important Decisions around here? Back to Table of Contents

Getting Started - How do I register an account at The Pen? Now that I'm registered, where do I post what? Sounds fun, but what's this application business? Right, so what's the catch? Back to Table of Contents